Implants Are Well Worth The Initial Investment and Here’s Why
With modern restorative dentistry, there are several options when it comes to replacing missing teeth. Restorations attach to remaining structures above the gum line, and bridges, partial dentures, and dentures all require some surface-level support.
If you’re in search of a tooth replacement option, you may be wondering if dental implants are worth the initial investment of your time and money. Dental implants offer unique advantages, and here’s why so many patients say they’re worth it.
Primary Advantages of Dental Implants
Implants are made of titanium, a bio-compatible material. Over time, titanium connects to your natural bone tissue, forming a secure, stable bond. Restorations can then be attached to the implants, and operate with the kind of function you expect from a natural tooth.
Pairing a restoration with an implant allows you to experience primary advantages, including:
- An improved appearance
- An increase in self-esteem
- Improved speech
- Oral health benefits
- Enhanced comfort
- Durability
- Convenience
Implants Save You Money Long-Term
Implants may have a higher initial cost than other tooth replacement options, but once they are in place, they can last for decades or even for life. Crowns, bridges, and dentures are also likely to last longer than without implants because they’re held firmly in place. Dental implants eliminate the risk of developing future tooth decay. Avoid the need for having to replace dental work over and over, saving you pain and money by choosing a dental implant to replace a missing tooth.
Future Dental Issues Are Prevented
When a gap is left behind by a missing tooth, that space attracts bacteria that leads to a heightened risk of developing cavities and gum disease. The surrounding teeth are also likely to shift to move into the gap, which disrupts your occlusion and causes crowding. Filling in the space from a missing tooth with a dental implant helps to restore your smile and keep everything where it belongs. An implant protects the area from additional damage by avoiding future dental issues.
Your Appearance is Preserved
Your facial structure is supported by a scaffolding of bone and connective tissue. When a tooth is lost, the skin over that area begins to sag. If bone loss takes hold of the area, there can be an additional hollow-look to your cheek, and your appearance ages prematurely. Dental implants not only build out the area above the gum line, but they also connect with your jaw bone to help preserve your bone density.
They look and Feel Like The Real Thing
Dental implants are anchored in place to your jaw, creating a much more natural-looking smile. Every day with a dental implant will be no different than if you were to possess all of your natural teeth. Implants look, feel, and function just as your natural teeth do.
Replacing Missing Teeth Matters
Missing teeth create opportunities for bacteria to gather. Consider the dark, removed spaces left by missing teeth – they’re a perfect breeding ground for oral bacteria. This will lead to cavities in surrounding teeth, as well as potential periodontal disease. Replacing missing teeth will fill in these spaces and make them easier for you to clean, improving tooth and gum health.
Other reasons to replace missing teeth include:
Restoring Your Self-confidence
When your smile is riddled with holes, it is easy to feel less than whole. We base a great deal of our self-esteem on how our teeth look and feel. When your smile is restored, you will feel healthy, happy, and strong. You’ll be excited to share your smile with the world, and will radiate confidence.
Daily Comfort
Common tasks like speaking and chewing become chores when you’re missing teeth. Relieve some of your stress and strife by restoring your mouth’s former function.
Social Presence
Your teeth communicate a great deal about you. A smile without gaps is a healthy smile, and your teeth will speak to that. Others evaluate you based on your teeth, and it’s common for people to cite a smile as the first thing they notice about someone. By putting a great smile forth, you’re exposing people to your healthiest, most capable, most confident self. This will improve both your social and professional interactions.
Are You A Dental Implant Candidate?
For a dental implant to be successful, you will need to have adequate bone tissue for the implant to be placed. If it’s been some time since you lost a tooth, you may need a bone graft to be eligible. Regardless of your bone tissue levels, Elite Dental & Denture PC is here to help prepare your mouth for having an implant placed. Call us today to learn more about a permanent solution for your missing tooth.